Effect of hypertension on the natural history of intracranial aneurysms

Abstract

Intracranial aneurysm (IA) is a cerebrovascular disease characterized by localized structural deterioration and an arterial wall bulge. It can remain asymptomatic for many years or rupture suddenly with life-threatening results. Hypertension is one of the most common risk factors and complications of IAs. Despite advances in treatment philosophy and perioperative management, many unknowns remain about IA’s natural history. In addition, numerous studies have shown hypertension’s impact on the IA formation, development, and rupture process. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of hypertensive mechanisms in IA patients to identify those potentially contributing to IAs for future research